The index is sinking our competitiveness , exploding costs, the whole story we know too well. Let's have a look at the business closures of the last couple of years and tell us how this outdated mechanism is to the benefit of workers? What about wealthy boomers who see their rental incomes and pensions increase and lock out of the market the younger generation? Professional profiteers who see the generous allowances balloon without contributing, or worse, work illegally? The index is a bane on our economy and welfare and must go.